Famous as the place that gave birth to Darwin’s theory of evolution, the Galapagos Islands are equally well known as the home of a diverse number of animals. Most people travelling to the Galapagos are hoping to spot the famous giant turtle on the beach or the immense giant tortoise; however, it is the underwater life that really makes it a destination worth heading to.
The Galapagos
The archipelago is officially part of Ecuador but is located 1,000km from the coast, making it largely undeveloped with a small human population. The distance from the mainland, the warm climate and the low impact of humans have all helped to sustain a habitat that is as rich and diverse in marine life as anywhere on the planet. Galapagos holidays are gaining in popularity but visitor numbers are controlled in many areas, making it a once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Marine sightseeing
There are two main ways to discover the underwater side of the Galapagos: by boat or on a diving holiday. Boat holidays can take in much of the marine life that lives close to the water’s edge, such as sea lions and penguins. From a boat you are also likely to see a wide range of whale and dolphin species. Galapagos boat cruises may include snorkelling opportunities to give you a chance to see the amazing world that lives beneath the water’s surface.
A diving trip, on the other hand, is a more active holiday and is ideal for those who really want to get up close and personal with the amazing underwater life that teems around these islands. Expect to see hammerhead sharks, turtles, white-tip sharks, eagle rays and barracudas, all in abundant numbers.
One of the most amazing animals that you may dive with is the marine iguana, a living fossil that is as old as the dinosaur and is the only sea-going lizard in the world. The best way to book either a cruise or a diving holiday is through a reputable, responsible company.
The underwater life of the Galapagos Islands is a truly unique experience, from swimming lizards to hammerhead sharks, giant turtles and the unforgettable sea lions. Whether you experience it by boat or on a specialist diving trip, this once-in-a-lifetime destination is waiting for you.
